Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WA Board of Education
K-12 Teacher Licensing in Washington
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for k-12 teacher in Washington, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
No exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for K-12 Teacher in Washington
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: No exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$99,110 median (59% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#1 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Washington
With a median salary of 99,110, K-12 Teachers in Washington earn 59% above the national median of $62,340. Washington ranks #1 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,837Median annual salary
$99,110Hourly estimate
$47.6559% above national median
Difference: +$36,770
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationK-12 Teacher Salary Ranking
#1 of 50 statesfor K-12 Teacher median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | 99,110 |
| #2 | California | 98,190 |
| #3 | Rhode Island | 86,900 |
| #4 | Massachusetts | 83,260 |
| #5 | New York | 82,480 |
Nearby States Comparison
K-12 Teacher licensing across the regionLicense by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Idaho | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction
600 Washington St SE, Olympia, WA, 98504
Phone: 3607256372
Related Careers in Washington
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Librarian | $94,400 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| School Counselor | $83,930 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Architect | $97,800 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Audiologist | $105,120 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a K-12 Teacher in Washington?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for K-12 Teachers in Washington?
Washington lists No exam required as part of the licensure process for K-12 Teachers.
What education do you need to become a K-12 Teacher in Washington?
The board typically expects Specific course required for K-12 Teacher licensure in Washington.
What is the typical K-12 Teacher salary in Washington?
The median annual salary for K-12 Teachers in Washington is 99,110. Salaries range from $62,900 (10th percentile) to $122,830 (90th percentile).
How does the K-12 Teacher salary in Washington compare to the national average?
K-12 Teachers in Washington earn 59% above the national median of $62,340, with a state median of 99,110.
How many K-12 Teachers work in Washington?
Washington employs approximately 30,790 K-12 Teachers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my K-12 Teacher license to Washington from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for K-12 Teachers in Washington?
The licensing agency is Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction. Review agency details at http://www.k12.wa.us/certification.